Category: Health and safety

Fact: A teaspoon measures volume, not mass, making it dangerously inaccurate for small quantities of powder. While it may seem convenient, attempting to measure 100 mg of powder in teaspoons is highly unsafe and not recommended, as a digital milligram scale is the only reliable method for precise measurements.

While fruit bats are consumed as a food source in some cultures, public health experts and scientists strongly advise against eating bats due to significant health risks. Concerns surround bats as reservoirs for deadly zoonotic viruses, which can pose a grave danger to humans. This article explores the dangers and realities behind the question: are bats good for you to eat?

Derived from glucose through fermentation, glucono delta lactone (GDL) is an organic compound widely used as a food additive. Given its frequent appearance in ingredient lists for products ranging from tofu to baked goods, it's natural to question whether glucono delta lactone is healthy for consumption. Regulatory bodies affirm its safety, but understanding its function and health implications is key.

According to the CDC, exposure to excessive nitrate levels can lead to adverse health effects, most notably acute methemoglobinemia. This article explores the question, "What does calcium nitrate do to your body?" by detailing the risks associated with exposure and the specific health issues that can arise from its toxic components.

According to the USDA, dried fruits like prunes can maintain their quality for up to six months in a pantry. While this long shelf life suggests you can leave prunes unrefrigerated, the best practice and duration depend heavily on whether the package is sealed or has been opened.

According to a 2024 study, many consumers are switching to non-toxic cookware alternatives, with ceramic and stainless steel being two of the most popular choices. Yet, a common question remains: what is safer, ceramic or stainless steel pots? The answer depends on your cooking style, the quality of the cookware, and specific health concerns, but both can be excellent, safe options when used correctly.

According to the Center for Science in the Public Interest, while regulatory bodies generally consider carmine safe, a small percentage of people experience allergic reactions ranging from hives to life-threatening anaphylactic shock. The question of whether carmine is harmful for health, therefore, depends heavily on individual sensitivity and reaction.

According to the National Capital Poison Center, traditional styrofoam packing peanuts are not toxic, but they can pose a serious choking hazard or cause intestinal blockages if ingested. This critical distinction is necessary because while some modern, biodegradable alternatives might be non-toxic, none of them are considered safe to eat.

While many varieties of succulents offer unique culinary flavors and textures, it is critical to know that not all succulents are food safe, and consuming the wrong species can be dangerous. The line between a tasty garnish and a toxic plant is a crucial distinction that every enthusiast must understand before considering consumption.

Despite common misunderstandings, E127, also known as Erythrosine, is not completely banned in the UK; its use is strictly limited to certain products like cocktail cherries. A high-profile 2021 incident dubbed "Sprinklegate" highlighted the stringent regulations in place for the red food additive, underscoring significant health and safety concerns.